I’ll admit it: I’m a skincare junkie. Living a stone’s throw from the French Alps will do that to you — winter here is beautiful, dramatic, and absolutely merciless on the skin. But French women don’t treat winter as something to “survive.” Their winter skincare rituals are gentle, intuitive, and rooted in self-care rather than urgency.
Over the years, I’ve learned that French winter skincare isn’t about perfection or luxury. It’s about care. Consistency. Tiny rituals that make long winters feel softer — and a cultural mindset that wellbeing deserves space in everyday life.
Below, I’m sharing the French skincare philosophy I’ve learned, the simple winter routine I rely on every year, and the slow-living mindset I’ve absorbed from women around me. If you want to understand how French women take care of themselves in winter, this is the rhythm I see — and live — every day.
For an overview of everyday French wellbeing habits, start with → The French Approach To Wellbeing.
Why French Women Shift Their Skincare in Winter
Winter in the Alps is no joke. The cold brings dry air, biting winds, overheated indoor spaces, and sunlight bouncing off snow. Your skin feels every bit of it.
What I admire about French women is that they don’t wait for their skin to react. They shift into winter mode early — richer textures, gentler cleansing, and a “nourish, don’t punish” approach. No 12-step routine. Just thoughtful, minimal, effective care.
My French Winter Skincare Routine (Simple, Nourishing, Tested)
After more than two decades here, I’ve learned that French winter skincare doesn’t require dozens of products — just a few good ones used consistently. French women don’t complicate it. Here’s what I come back to every winter:
1. A richer moisturizer
Cold air requires comfort and protection. Luckily, French pharmacies are full of thick, nourishing creams that support the skin barrier.
2. A gentle, non-stripping cleanser
Cleansing milks and creamy formulas keep skin calm instead of irritated.
3. A hydrating eye product
Winter somehow settles under the eyes. A cooling stick or gel helps immediately.
4. A weekly nourishing mask
Five quiet minutes. One reset per week. It works wonders.
5. Lip balm everywhere
Always in my pockets this time of year.
6. SPF (yes, even in winter)
Snow glare is fierce. French women wear SPF daily, year-round.
7. A nourishing body cream
A rich evening body cream is one of my favorite winter rituals.
If you’re curious about the exact products I use, I’ll be listing them on my Favorites page when it launches in January 2026.
And skincare is obvious important when it comes to ageing well, read more here → How French Women Age Naturally And Well.
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The French Self-Care Mindset in Winter: Rest Is Not a Luxury
Around the time I turned 40, life was full but overwhelming. What’s more three young children, busy schedules, little sleep — and the feeling that my wellbeing was slipping through the cracks. For years, “healthy” meant pushing harder: long workouts, little rest, constant doing.
France shifted that for me.
Finally, I noticed something gentle and wise: women here don’t power through winter — they adapt to it. They give themselves warmth, nourishment, and space, even in small ways. A hammam at the community pool. A quiet walk by the lake. A nourishing mask once a week. Ten minutes of tea before the house wakes up.
In fact, nothing extravagant. Nothing performative. Just a pause. Warmth. Stillness. In other words, a moment to acknowledge the season. This mindset changed me far more than any product.
More here about self-care → 10 Ways French Women Practice Self Care.
You Don’t Need a Spa to Live This Way
Everything I’ve learned from French winters can be done anywhere: a steaming bath, a slow walk, a mask once a week, ten quiet minutes with a warm drink, one small ritual that says, “this moment is for me.”
Warmth. Slowness. Breath. And finally, softness.
That is the French winter rhythm I’ve learned — and loved.
You don’t need the Alps. Moreover, you don’t need a spa. You just need the intention.
Winter asks for gentleness. And France simply reminded me to honor it.
Bonus: The Best Spas in (and Around) Annecy for a Winter Reset
If you are in Annecy — or planning a trip — these are the places where I’ve learned what true winter rest feels like.
Les Trésoms — Annecy
Cozy, quiet, tucked into the woods above the lake. What it taught me: simplicity can be deeply restorative.
Rivage Hotel & Spa — Annecy
Bright, spacious, modern — with pools, saunas, hammam, cold dip, and lake-view relaxation rooms. What it taught me: rest doesn’t need to be fancy; it just needs intention.
Imperial Palace — Cristal Spa — Annecy
Elegant and calming, with an infinity pool overlooking the lake and snowy mountains. What it taught me: beauty can be healing in winter.
Alta Pura Hotel & Spa — Val Thorens
Finally, warm pools, Pure Altitude products, dramatic mountain views. What it taught me: warmth + winter air = magic.
More From France
If you’re curious about how France nurtures healthier habits — from school lunches to everyday food, movement, and wellbeing — I share practical tips and stories each month. Sign up for the free newsletter below and receive my guide, The French Guide to Everyday Wellbeing, straight to your inbox. Merci!
